Tzatziki Pasta Salad | Refreshing Mediterranean Side Dish
Warm days call for meals that feel light, fresh, and satisfying without being heavy. That’s exactly what makes a Tzatziki Pasta Salad such a delightful choice. Combining the creaminess of Greek yogurt, the crispness of cucumbers, the brightness of fresh herbs, and the heartiness of pasta, this dish is a fusion of comfort and refreshment. It carries the beloved flavors of the traditional Mediterranean tzatziki sauce and transforms them into a meal-worthy salad. Perfect for summer barbecues, weekday lunches, or as a refreshing side dish, this recipe brings together textures and flavors that are both wholesome and crave-worthy.
Instead of a mayo-heavy dressing often found in pasta salads, the yogurt-based tzatziki dressing lightens things up while delivering tangy, herby goodness. Whether you’re a fan of Mediterranean cuisine or simply searching for a healthier pasta salad recipe, this dish ticks all the boxes.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta (rotini or penne) | 3 cups cooked | 330 kcal |
| Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened) | 1 cup | 100 kcal |
| Cucumber (grated and drained) | 1 medium | 30 kcal |
| Fresh dill (chopped) | 2 tbsp | 8 kcal |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 9 kcal |
| Lemon juice (freshly squeezed) | 2 tbsp | 8 kcal |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 240 kcal |
| Cherry tomatoes (halved) | 1 cup | 25 kcal |
| Red onion (thinly sliced) | ½ small | 20 kcal |
| Feta cheese (crumbled) | ½ cup | 200 kcal |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | 0 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Cook the pasta
Boil pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside. - Prepare the tzatziki dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (make sure excess water is squeezed out), lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. - Assemble the salad
Add the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese into the bowl with the dressing. Toss until all ingredients are evenly coated. - Chill and serve
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend beautifully.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Add protein: Mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
- Switch the pasta: Whole wheat, chickpea, or lentil pasta work well for a healthier twist.
- Play with herbs: Try mint or parsley along with dill for a fresh variation.
- Make it dairy-free: Swap Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free feta.
- Boost crunch: Add chopped bell peppers, olives, or toasted pine nuts for texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 245 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a side dish with grilled meats like chicken souvlaki or lamb kebabs.
- Pack it into a lunchbox with pita bread and fresh veggies for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a green salad for a light vegetarian dinner.
- Garnish with extra dill, a drizzle of olive oil, and lemon wedges for a pretty presentation.
Tzatziki Pasta Salad
4
servings15
minutes10
minutes245
kcalIngredients
2 cups cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or bow-tie) – 220 kcal
1 cup plain Greek yogurt – 100 kcal
1 medium cucumber, finely grated – 16 kcal
2 cloves garlic, minced – 8 kcal
2 tbsp olive oil – 240 kcal
1 tbsp lemon juice – 4 kcal
2 tbsp fresh dill or mint, chopped – 2 kcal
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – 25 kcal
½ red onion, thinly sliced – 20 kcal
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs to make the tzatziki dressing.
- Add cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion to the bowl. Mix until well coated.
- Toss in the cooked pasta and stir gently until everything is combined.
- Season with salt and black pepper. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving—this allows the tzatziki dressing to soak into the pasta.
Use seedless cucumbers if possible; if using regular cucumber, grate and squeeze out excess water to avoid a watery salad.
FAQs
1. Can I make Tzatziki Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad tastes even better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and stir before serving.
2. What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or bow-tie pasta work best because they hold the tzatziki sauce well and give the salad a hearty texture.
3. Can I make this salad gluten-free?
Absolutely. Simply swap traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas for a gluten-free version.
4. How long does Tzatziki Pasta Salad last in the fridge?
It usually lasts 3–4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in a sealed container.
5. Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, or chickpeas are great protein-packed additions that turn this salad into a complete meal.
Conclusion
Tzatziki Pasta Salad blends the best of Mediterranean flavors with the comfort of pasta, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet refreshing. The creamy yogurt dressing keeps it light, while herbs, garlic, and lemon bring a burst of brightness. Whether you’re preparing for a summer gathering or simply craving something flavorful and wholesome, this pasta salad deserves a spot in your recipe collection. One bite, and you’ll see why it’s bound to become a favorite.
